Choui Fong is Chiang Rai's best-known tea plantation and one of the most photogenic places in the province. Thailand's tourism authority notes that it belongs to the largest tea producer in Chiang Rai, with more than 40 years of experience, and its terraced rows follow the mountain ridge. The Mae Chan branch is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with free admission, and a second branch lies in Mae Fah Luang district. You can walk along the edge of the tea fields, watch pickers at work in the early morning, taste teas and then sit in the tea cafe, which serves tea-based dishes and desserts such as green tea crepe cake and has a rooftop with sweeping views. It is a relaxed, scenic stop and an easy introduction to the northern tea hills.
Most visitors begin at the cafe, where the menu is built around tea. Try a hot or iced oolong or green tea, and pair it with a dessert, then step onto the terrace or climb to the rooftop for a wide view of the green terraces. Short paths lead along the plantation edge, and the best light comes in the early morning and late afternoon. If you come early you may see harvesters at work among the bushes.
The plantation shop sells loose-leaf and bagged teas, matcha powder and tea gifts, which are easy to carry home. Admission is free, and the site is set up for visitors, with parking and seating. It is a quick stop, but many people linger for an hour or two over their drinks.
Choui Fong is about 40 minutes by road from Chiang Rai town, according to Thailand's tourism authority, and lies on the way to Doi Mae Salong, so the two make a natural pair. Bring sun protection and a camera, and check the plantation's website for the opening hours of each branch on the day you plan to go.
What to expect
The experience
A walk along terraced tea fields, a tea tasting or cafe stop and a visit to the plantation shop.
Best time
Early morning for harvesting and soft light, or late afternoon.
How long
One to two hours, depending on how long you linger over tea.
Tips
Bring sun protection, try a tea-based dessert and check opening hours for the branch you plan to visit.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Tea lovers, photographers and anyone who wants a scenic, easy stop.
- Families
- Easy and free, with open space and desserts that children enjoy.
- Couples
- Share a pot of tea on the terrace while the light fades over the hills.
- Pair with
- Doi Mae Salong, which lies further along the same road.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Is Choui Fong free to visit?+
Yes, Thailand's tourism authority lists admission as free at the Mae Chan branch. You pay only for tea, food and anything you buy.
What are the opening hours?+
The Mae Chan branch is listed open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Check the plantation's site for the branch you plan to visit.
Is there a cafe?+
Yes, the tea cafe serves tea-based drinks, dishes and desserts, and the rooftop gives a 360-degree view of the tea fields.
How far is it from Chiang Rai?+
It is about 40 minutes by road from Chiang Rai town. It lies on the road towards Doi Mae Salong.
When is the best time of day?+
Early morning gives the best light and a chance to see harvesting. Late afternoon is also beautiful and less hot.
